7 Best RTIC Ice Coolers of 2026

The RTIC Ultra-Light 32 Quart redefines what a mid-sized hard cooler should be—lightweight without sacrificing ice retention. At just 14.7 lbs, it’s over 30% lighter than traditional rotomolded coolers, making it a game-changer for backpackers, kayakers, and weekend campers who dread hauling heavy gear. With 2.5 inches of closed-cell foam insulation and a rugged, bear-resistant build, this cooler doesn’t just carry easily—it performs like its bulkier counterparts, keeping ice frozen for up to five days in real-world testing.

In field use, the 32-quart model shines on multi-day trips where space and weight matter. It holds up to 48 cans or 30 pounds of ice, fitting neatly in car trunks, boat decks, or tailgate spreads. The thick lid seal and freezer-style gasket create an airtight environment, while non-skid rubber feet prevent slippage on wet surfaces. Though it lacks drain plugs or bottle openers found on pricier models, it still doubles as a bench or footrest thanks to its stable design—ideal when you’re short on camping furniture.

Compared to the RTIC 52 Quart Wheeled model, this one trades convenience features for portability and simplicity, making it a smarter pick for solo adventurers or small groups. It outperforms soft coolers in ice retention and durability while remaining far easier to carry than full-size rotomolded units. For those seeking a balanced blend of size, weight, and cooling power, the Ultra-Light 32 stands out as a top-tier choice that outshines rivals in its class.

The RTIC Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler 30 Can is a versatile, floating powerhouse built for water lovers and casual adventurers alike. What sets it apart isn’t just its two-day cooling performance, but the fact that it floats confidently on lakes, rivers, or pools, keeping drinks within reach during swim breaks or paddle sessions. Encased in heavy-duty nylon with 1.5 inches of closed-cell foam, this soft-sided cooler resists punctures, UV damage, and leaks—thanks to the RTIC EZ waterproof zipper, a standout feature that actually delivers on its 100% leak-proof promise.

During real-world testing at beach days and weekend lake trips, the 30-can capacity proved perfect for small groups or couples, holding a mix of drinks, snacks, and perishables without bulk. It’s light enough to sling over a shoulder and rugged enough to survive rocky docks or sandy shores. While soft coolers generally can’t match hard models in ice retention, this one holds cold for up to 48 hours when pre-chilled and loaded with ice packs—especially when kept in the shade. It struggles in direct desert sun over 90°F, but that’s true of most soft coolers.

Against the RTIC 50 Can soft model, it’s more portable but less ideal for large gatherings. It doesn’t compete with hard coolers in longevity, but it excels where mobility and fun matter most—like floating down a river or tossing it in a kayak. For anyone who prioritizes flexibility, floatability, and fast access, this cooler delivers where it counts, outperforming similarly priced soft bags with better materials and smarter design.

The RTIC Ultra-Light 22 Quart is a compact cooling marvel that punches far above its size class. Designed for solo explorers or minimalist packers, it’s 30% lighter than standard rotomolded coolers yet still packs up to 2.4 inches of closed-cell foam insulation and a freezer-style gasket—key ingredients for locking in cold for up to six days. That kind of ice retention in a sub-15-pound package is rare, making this cooler a secret weapon for backpacking, motorcycle trips, or small-space camping where every ounce counts.

In practice, the 22 QT model fits 30 cans or eight wine bottles with room to spare, and its dual-mode carrying strap—convertible from handle to shoulder carry—adds serious comfort during long walks to the campsite. The silicone T-latches form a tight seal, while the Single Plug Rapid V-Drain makes cleanup a one-second task. A built-in stainless steel bottle opener and silicone cargo net add thoughtful touches, turning this small cooler into a highly functional hub for outdoor essentials.

When stacked against the 32 Quart model, it sacrifices capacity but gains superior portability and maneuverability. It’s not meant for family cookouts, but for backcountry anglers or solo hikers, it’s nearly perfect. It delivers hard-cooler toughness and elite insulation in a compact, carry-everywhere form, offering better value than pricier mini-coolers that skimp on features. For those who want maximum performance in a minimal footprint, this is the ultimate personal cooler.

The RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Quart is a beast of bulk without the back-breaking burden, delivering massive 76-can capacity in a shell that’s over 30% lighter than traditional rotomolded coolers. At just 21 lbs empty, it’s engineered for adventurers who need serious storage without serious strain—perfect for family camping, boat excursions, or extended off-grid stays. Its 3 inches of closed-cell foam insulation ranks among the thickest in the lineup, ensuring ice lasts up to five or six days even in sweltering heat.

This cooler thrives in scenarios where volume and durability are non-negotiable. The spacious interior fits entire meal preps, drinks, and raw proteins without overcrowding, and its rugged exterior withstands drops, scrapes, and UV exposure. It doubles as a bench, step stool, or prep table, thanks to its stable base and reinforced lid. While it lacks wheels or a drain system, its ergonomic handle and manageable weight make it easier to carry than most 50+ quart models. It’s not ideal for long drags over sand, but for loading into trucks or placing on flat ground, it’s unmatched in raw utility.

Compared to the wheeled 52 QT model, it skips the wheels and premium handle but offers nearly identical cooling performance at a lower cost. It’s the go-to for those who prioritize capacity and insulation over mobility. If you need a large, no-nonsense hard cooler that cools like a premium model but weighs like a mid-size, this is the one that delivers the most bang for the build.

The RTIC 8 QT Road Trip Cooler is a compact titan of convenience, engineered for quick getaways, lunch runs, or as a personal companion on longer trips. Don’t let its size fool you—this 12-can-capacity cooler locks in cold for up to 40 hours, thanks to 2 inches of closed-cell foam and a freezer-style gasket usually found in larger models. Its ultra-light build and recessed handle make it ideal for tossing in a car, slipping under a seat, or carrying into a concert or beach spot without hassle.

In daily use, the 8 QT excels as a personal cooler for commuters, anglers, or office workers wanting fresh lunches. The lid lock handle ensures it stays sealed during transport—no spills in the trunk—even when tipped sideways. The silicone cargo net inside the lid is perfect for keys, sunscreen, or snacks, and non-skid feet keep it stable on uneven surfaces. While it won’t replace a family-sized unit, it outperforms most mini coolers in both ice retention and build quality, making it a standout in the budget segment.

Against pricier soft coolers, it offers hard-shell durability and longer cooling in a smaller footprint. It doesn’t compete with larger RTIC models in capacity, but for affordable, reliable personal cooling, it’s unmatched. It delivers premium insulation and smart design at a fraction of the cost, making it the smartest entry point into the RTIC lineup for first-time buyers or occasional users.

The RTIC Soft Cooler 50 Can is the largest in the soft lineup, built for groups, tailgates, or extended trips where portability and volume go hand in hand. With up to two days of cooling power and a floating design, it brings the fun to lakes, beaches, or pool parties—keeping drinks accessible and chilled without the bulk of a hard cooler. The heavy-duty nylon shell and 1.5 inches of closed-cell foam provide impressive durability, while the RTIC EZ waterproof zipper ensures zero leaks, even when fully loaded and tilted.

This cooler shines when you need to move fast and carry more—it fits enough for 6–8 people and can be dragged into a truck bed, tossed in a boat, or set on a picnic table with ease. Its lightweight construction makes it far easier to handle than a 50-quart hard cooler, and the floating feature adds unique utility for water-based adventures. In hot conditions, it benefits from pre-chilling and block ice, but even then, it can’t match the multi-day ice retention of hard-sided models—a trade-off for its flexibility.

Compared to the 30 Can version, it offers greater capacity without sacrificing core features, making it the best soft option for serious outdoor gatherings. Against the Ultra-Light 52 QT hard cooler, it’s less durable and cools for less time, but wins on ease of transport and water usability. For those who want a spacious, leak-proof, floating cooler that’s easy to move, this is the ultimate soft-shell upgrade.

The RTIC 52 Quart Ultra-Light Wheeled Cooler is the undisputed king of all-terrain portability, combining massive 78-can capacity with puncture-resistant all-terrain wheels and a no-slam aluminum handle. It’s over 30% lighter than traditional rotomolded coolers and rolls effortlessly over sand, gravel, and grass—making it ideal for beach access, boat docks, or remote campsites where carrying isn’t an option. With 2.5 inches of closed-cell foam insulation, it delivers multi-day ice retention that rivals non-wheeled models, sealing in cold just as effectively.

In real-world use, the wheeled design transforms logistics—no more straining backs when transporting ice-heavy loads. The ergonomic silicone-gripped handle glides smoothly, and the sturdy wheels handle rough terrain without wobbling. It holds up to 78 cans or 50+ pounds of ice, and like other RTIC hard coolers, it doubles as a bench or prep station. The built-in silicone cargo net keeps small items organized, and the cooler’s durability matches the brand’s reputation for toughness.

Against the non-wheeled 52 QT model, it’s slightly heavier (30 lbs vs 21 lbs) but offers far better mobility for large loads. It’s the most complete package in the lineup—balancing size, cooling, and transport like no other. For those who want maximum capacity with minimal effort, this is the best overall RTIC cooler, delivering premium performance where it matters most.